Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common condition that may be appropriate for a hospice care referral. However, some may be hesitant about whether hospice care is the answer.
You can support these patients by explaining the eligibility criteria, the benefits and how hospice care is supportive care for both the patient and their loved ones by addressing their needs and preferences.
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Hospice Care Eligibility Criteria for Patients with COPD
Hospice care services focus on enhancing quality of life and managing pain and other symptoms for terminally ill patients. When a patient’s physician certifies they have six months or less to live, and curative treatments are no longer effective, or the patient does not wish to continue curative treatments, hospice care becomes a viable option.
To be eligible for hospice, patients need to meet specific eligibility criteria. Here are some of the most common signs that a terminally ill patient with COPD may be ready for hospice care:
Shortness of Breath
Also known as dyspnea, shortness of breath when at rest or with minimal exertion can be a sign of more significant medical issues related to the heart and lungs.
Unresponsive to Dyspnea Therapies
Dyspnea that persists despite attempts with bronchodilator therapy could be a sign that the condition is advanced and requires additional care or medication.
Frequent Use of Medical Services
Frequent hospitalizations, emergency room visits or doctor consultations can indicate that care from a specialist would be beneficial.
Recurring Pneumonia or Bronchitis Episodes
Frequent occurrences of pneumonia or bronchitis despite medical interventions could mean consistent medical support is required.
Sudden Weight Loss
Unintentional, sudden weight loss is a common sign that may warrant hospice evaluation. Sudden weight loss often indicates that the body is conserving energy and may indicate disease progression.
Inability to Perform Activities of Daily Living
When daily tasks (ex: bathing, dressing, meal preparation, etc.) that used to be easy to perform independently become more difficult, hospice aides can help.
How Hospice Care Addresses the Needs of Patients and Families
Hospice care offers many benefits for both patients and their families. Hospice professionals create a supportive environment that prioritizes pain and symptom management, comfort, dignity, emotional, psychosocial and spiritual well-being. Some of the benefits include:
Advance Care Planning
If so desired, Hospice can help patients and families develop advance care plans that align with their values and preferences to ensure all medical and personal needs are respected.
Caregiver Education and Support
Hospice offers extensive education, resources, and support for caregivers, enabling them to provide effective care. Hospice also helps the caregiver focus on their own well-being to facilitate additional precious time with their loved one.
Family members and patients are also provided emotional and psychological support by hospice team members to help them cope with the challenges of illness, loss and grief.
Symptom Management and Disease Progression
Specialized care teams address and manage symptoms that are common to patients with COPD to ensure patient comfort. These may include chest pain, dyspnea, fatigue, weight gain, ascites and edema, as well as other symptoms.
Financial Relief
Hospice care reduces financial burdens by covering medicine, medical equipment and supplies related to the terminal diagnosis.
Psychological Well-Being
Hospice care can include counseling and support to address psychological needs experienced by hospice patients and caregivers, including depression, sleep issues, anorexia, social isolation, fear, frustration and anxiety.
Hospice care can also help families and patients prepare for end-of-life by fostering peace and acceptance during this difficult transition.
Spiritual Well-Being
Hospice care helps patients find meaning with the spiritual support of a non-denominational hospice chaplain. The chaplain will work with a spiritual leader of the family’s belief system as requested. This can allow patients and families to focus on creating meaningful experiences and preserving life legacies.
How Hospice Care from Amedisys Can Help
Helping patients and their families navigate their healthcare options can be difficult. Some families might hesitate when hospice care is suggested, but with the knowledge of hospice care benefits and services, you can help them make an informed decision.
For quick reference to the benefits of hospice care for COPD patients, download and print out our flyer, Hospice Care for COPD Patients.
